So my travels have taken me to the Czech Republic, home to absinthe, green fairies and the most amazing little city of Prague, where I’m kicking back with the Bohemians. I have heard some ridiculously talented indie bands and buskers whilst cruising around the city.
I caught super quirky Balkin busking ensemble Praguematique – ingenious name huh – who played at Mosaic House, my home, in Prague on Thursday night. They might not be what you’d normally find on my playlist, but these guys were particularly fun to listen to and are talented and clever musicians. Their skills on traditional Balkan instruments like the accordion and percussion help to create their unique, super high-energy sound. The way they weaved their gypsy/jazzy/folk mix into rearranged classic tunes was effortless; their take on Smells Like Teen Spirit was pretty cool!
The boys busk around the streets of Prague of course, on ‘sunny days’, and even made their way last month around Germany, Italy, Switzerland and France. If you’re in the Czech Republic over the next few days and want to soak in some Eastern Euro tunes to get you in the Bohemian mood, Praguematique update their whereabouts on their Facebook page regularly https://www.facebook.com/praguematique. This Wednesday the boys will be playing the Café V lese in Prague.
Just roaming around this city you’re sure to catch something special music wise. My tip is to get out of the touristy spots like the main square in the Old Town and get lost down some of the nearby alleyways where the locals hang out. Here you’ll find some typically ‘Bohemian’ cafés, bars and clubs, and the friendly locals are all too happy to send you in the direction of Prague’s best hidden gems.
For another cool place to check out some traditional local bands, enjoy good beer voted best in the world several times over, and some amazing traditional Czech food, head to Strahovská Monastery on the opposite side of Charles Bridge from the Old Town. Actually, just go, even just to taste the beer on offer. This sweet little beer garden/restaurant is the perfect chill spot.
I’ve avoided telling you about the Absintherie in the Old Town…this liquid isn’t good to consume before checking out the music scene…the point is to remember good tunes!
